The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has announced the appointment of former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adejare Bello, as the new Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council.

The announcement was made on Friday in a statement by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju. He noted that Bello brings extensive legislative experience, diplomatic exposure, and a strong commitment to education to his new role.

“Having previously served with distinction as Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bello also served as Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Mexico in June 2021, with concurrent accreditation to Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Panama, contributing significantly to the country’s diplomatic engagements,” the statement read.

An alumnus of OAU, Bello earned a degree in Law and hails from Ede, Osun State.

Olarewaju highlighted his humility, accessibility, and strong interpersonal skills, saying the university is confident in his ability to provide visionary leadership and work harmoniously with council members, staff, unions, students, alumni, and other stakeholders.

Bello succeeds the late Prof. Siyan Oyeweso, who passed away in December 2025 at the age of 64.

The university community congratulated Bello and expressed optimism for a new era of stability, progress, and excellence under his chairmanship.